Can you have two sump pumps?

You could set both sump pumps at the bottom of your sump pit basin, but that would mean that both pumps would run at the same time. The more a pump turns on and off the shorter the life span. So, by installing the 2nd sump pump slightly higher, or on top of the primary pump, they won’t be working in tandem.

Why would a house have two sump pumps?

Depending on where you live and the height of your water table, you may need a second sump pump to keep your basement dry – especially during periods of heavy rain. Every inch of rain generates about 1000 gallons of water that comes down off your roof and surrounds your foundation.

Is a float switch normally open or closed?

A float switch is wired in either the normally open or normally closed position. A normally open position is open when down (low liquid level) and a normally closed position is closed when down. The open/closed position refers to the electrical circuit.

What kind of switches do I need for my sump pump?

You can get vertical, tethered, diaphragm, and electrical switches in the market, each one ideal for a specific type of installation. We’ll tell you more about them so you can decide which one is the best for your needs.

How does a water level switch work on a sump pump?

The operation of a vertical switch is relatively straightforward. As the water level in the sump basin rises, the float rises with it, and the switch is activated it reaches a particular height, turning the pump on. When the water level falls, the float crosses the predetermined height, and the switch is flipped, turning the pump off.

How is a diaphragm switch attached to a sump pump?

Unlike most other sump switches, diaphragm switches are activated by pressure. For this reason, they are attached very low on the side or the body of the pump.

Which is the male plug on a sump pump?

Of the two cords, the one with only the male plug goes in the sump pump while the one with both the male and female plugs is the switch. You can test the pump by unplugging the pump cord from the switch cord and plugging it in directly into the main outlet. The pump is operational if it turns on.

How does an alternating sump pump system work?

This approach provides both pump backup and the ability to handle surges in building water entry loads on the sump pump system. Alternating septic pump design: the two sump pumps are installed at the same location but are wired so that the pumps take turns, first one, and next cycle the other pump is turned on by the float switch.

How much does it cost to replace a sump pump float switch?

Sump Pump Float Switch Replacement. If your sump pump is having trouble switching on and off correctly, you will likely need to replace the float switch. The average cost to replace a float switch is between $35 to $70 not including labor costs.

How do you install a dual sump pump?

Simply screw the check valves into both pumps, drop the Y-connector into the check valve boots, attach the rubber boot to the top of the Y-connector and then to your existing discharge line. Tighten all the stainless steel clamps with a screwdriver and you’re done.

Where are the pumps on a sump pit?

Both pumps are located on the bottom of the basin/sump pit. The switches that activate the backup pump are mounted 1″-2″ above the ON level of the main pump’s switch. The pumps don’t need to be at different levels, the switch ON points need to be at different levels. The discharge for my sump pump is 2″ diameter PVC.